Deck the halls…or the tourists!
I’m a New Yorker at heart. I love the city. Its got something for everyone…food, culture, diversity, and endless amounts of excitement. And the holiday season holds special interest in New York. Home of the original Miracle on 34th Street, people from around the world wait all year to see New York at this time of year. I don’t blame them. If I didn’t live here, I’d want to see it too…the windows at Saks 5th Ave, the tree at Rockefeller Center, the Radio City Rockettes. So much to see and so little time. With that thought in mind, I must share that I am confused.
If I were in New York for a limited time, I’d want to see everything, go everywhere, talk to everyone. What I don’t understand is why tourists get to New York and positively stand still. And I mean that. Just stop and stare- up, down, sideways. What are they staring at?
I was in a hurry the other night and got stuck in a pedestrian traffic jam. If I was in the car, I’d call it “rubbernecking.” Since I was walking, I’ll call is “touristing.” I got frustrated, and must admit, I behaved like a stereotypical New Yorker. After standing still for a few minutes I yelled out into the crowd “DOESN’T THIS SIDEWALK HAVE AN EXPRESS LANE!!!!” That worked and the crowd started moving again.
I did feel bad after this incident. All those people in their overcoats and Santa hats enjoying the season were probably just enjoying their vacation. They were probably posing for a memorable photo or marveling over the wonders of my city. I rationalized, however, that no trip to New York isnt’ complete without an encounter with a nasty New Yorker, so I allowed them to go home with the requisite story. In the end, its like a New Yorker’s holiday wishes…
Twas the holiday season and the tourists were there,
To cause lots of traffic while they stop and stare.
“See the tree! See the buildings! Aren’t they tall!”
Guided by tourbooks they bought in the fall.But a Native goes on with a regular day.
More work to do and more bills to pay.
They need to hurry to get across town,
But the sidewalks are packed both uptown and down.
New Yorkers get testy from the tourists in sight
And yell “Get out of the way and to all a good night!”